패전일 추도사에 ‘반성’ 뺀 다카이치…야스쿠니 봉납·참배에 중국 “역사적 정의 모욕”

Former Japanese Prime Minister Shizo Abe refrained from mentioning "remorse" and "non-violence oath" when referring to the "Battle of Victory Day" monk in his speech. The Yasukuni Shrine received war reparations in the form of compensation. China strongly protested Abe's omission of "remorse" and "non-violence oath" for war criminals and non-violent officials.

Prime Minister Abe visited Yasukuni Shrine as Minister of Defense, but did not personally visit in his current capacity as Prime Minister. Abe's predecessor, Ishiba Shigeru, mentioned these terms 13 years ago, but Abe, who regards Abe as his political mentor, chose not to repeat them. This decision was likely influenced by the reactions of neighboring countries such as South Korea and China to the Yasukuni Shrine visit.

Nine out of ten current Japan-based politicians have attended the Battle of Victory Day commemoration, including key figures from the ruling party and opposition parties. The Japanese government has emphasized that Japan has been working towards peace and prosperity, and that the country will continue to contribute to global peace and development.

However, China's Foreign Ministry called Abe's actions an insult to historical justice and a provocation to the post-war international order, urging Japan to reflect on its wartime history and distance itself from militarism. China's Defense Ministry also criticized Japan for honoring war criminals while claiming to pursue peace, warning that Japan would face further consequences if it continues on this path.